Trump declares national emergency over Cuba, citing “extraordinary threat” to US security

U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order declaring a national emergency with respect to Cuba, asserting that the actions and policies of the Cuban government constitute an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to the national security and foreign policy of the United States.

In the order, published on the White House website, Trump formally invoked his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and the National Emergencies Act, stating that the threat posed by Cuba originates “in whole or substantial part outside the United States” and therefore warrants emergency measures.

“I, Donald J. Trump, President of the United States of America, find that the situation with respect to Cuba constitutes an unusual and extraordinary threat […] and hereby declare a national emergency with respect to that threat,” the document reads.

The executive order accuses the Cuban government of aligning itself with U.S. adversaries and hostile non-state actors, including Russia, China, Iran, Hamas and Hezbollah. According to the administration, Havana provides support and safe haven to these actors while hosting foreign military and intelligence infrastructure that allegedly threatens U.S. security, including what Washington describes as Russia’s largest overseas signals intelligence facility.

Beyond security concerns, the order also cites Cuba’s internal policies, accusing the Cuban authorities of systematic human rights violations, repression of political opponents, restrictions on free speech and press, and the persecution of civil society and religious groups. The administration argues that these actions run counter to U.S. foreign policy goals of promoting democracy, rule of law and human rights.

As part of the emergency declaration, Trump authorised the possible introduction of additional tariffs on imports from third countries that directly or indirectly supply oil to Cuba. The measure is intended to increase economic pressure on Havana and those supporting it, with U.S. departments tasked with monitoring compliance and recommending further action if necessary.

The executive order allows for modification or escalation of measures should circumstances change, including potential retaliation by affected countries or, conversely, steps by Cuba or its partners to align with U.S. national security and foreign policy objectives.

The declaration takes effect at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Standard Time on January 30, 2026, and requires regular reporting to Congress on the use of emergency authorities under the order.

By Vugar Khalilov